The mid-weight, waterproof Vasque Bitterroot GTX boot is suitable for a weekend of backpacking or extended backcountry trips on a variety of terrain from maintained trails to rugged and rocky surfaces or bushwhacks.

The Vasque Bitterroot GTX is a mid to heavy weight, waterproof hiking boot suitable for weekend backpacks or extended backcountry trips on a variety of terrain from maintained trails to rugged and rocky surfaces. The boot’s full leather, minimal-seam with Gore-tex construction is ready for tough trail conditions and a durable, metal hardware lacing system is secure and offers easy fit adjustments.
A nice fit feature of the Bitterroot GTX is this little bit of asymmetry that has been designed into the heel here. You can see that this side comes out a little bit wider and offers more space for the ankle bone and a comfortable fit.
Under foot you’ll find a flexible TPU plate that’s rigid enough to protect the bottom of your foot from roots and rocks and a Polyurethane midsole to help cushion your foot.
A layer of dual density EVA rubber helps cushion your foot and provides comfort on high mile days. The outsole of the Bitterroot is a Vasque exclusive called Vibram Contact which features aggressive, high-traction lugs at the heel and toe areas while a prominent heel edge provides better traction on steep descents.
Lets take a look at the model for the outsole construction of the Bitterroot. This is you Polyurethane shank that is very stiff, rigid, and supportive. It gives the boot allot of structure. Second compontent is a polyurethane midsole. It is flexible yet stiff and offers cushioning and support in the heel. The third part that really makes this boot stand out is the dual density midsole. you can see this very soft piece of rubber that offers cushioning in the heel by cupping the heel for support. Vasque has designed this second shank. although it is not as stiff, it is very flexible in two separate pieces. It really allows the boot to move comfortably on your foot and still offer the same protection undefoot that a heavier and stiffer boot might. Last but not least you have you Vibram outsole.

Details

The Vasque Bitterroot GTX is a mid-weight, waterproof hiking boot suitable for weekend backpacks or extended backcountry trips on a variety of rough terrains, from maintained trails to rugged and rocky surfaces or bushwhacks. With a full leather, minimal-seam upper, all metal hardware lacing system and a burly, rubber toe rand, the Bitterroot GTX is ready for tough trail conditions.

A full GORE-TEX bootie delivers waterproof/breathable performance that readies the Bitterroot GTX for shallow stream crossings and all day slogs in wet weather. Fit features of the Bitterroot GTX include an all metal, speed lacing system at the ankle which allows for quick lacing and fit adjustments and an athletic, supportive feel on your foot. NOTE: There is a break in period with this boot due to the supportive, full leather construction.

Under foot you'll find a TPU plate (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) and PU (Polyurethane) midsole to protect the bottom of your foot from the impact of roots and rocks, even under the weight of a pack. A layer of dual-density EVA rubber cushions your foot on high-mileage days. The outsole of the Bitterroot GTX is a Vasque exclusive called Vibram Summit which features aggressive, high-traction lugs at the heel and toe areas. A prominent heel edge provides better traction on steep descents.

The Vasque Bitterroot GTX backpacking boot is available in men's full and half sizes. To keep the leather on this boot in good shape and to prevent water absorption in the upper for the life of the boot you should apply a leather conditioner or wax paste (both sold separately) waterproofing treatment.

Reviews

6 Item(s)

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Likes:
This is a sturdy boot and is built to last. Felt like I could step on anything on any terrain all it out worrying about rolling or slipping. I really wanted to like these boots but they just wouldn't work for me despite how hard I tried. They are super wide (too wide for me despite having wider than normal feet). The toe box has plenty of room and is the best I've felt in a boot.

Dislikes:
The break in period was absolutely brutal and, in the end, I simply gave up. If they weren't so wide I might have had hopes that things would get better, but as the leather stretched, things just got worse. Great boot, just not for me.

Thank goodness I bought from B.C. Edge. They're a top notch company - good product selection, great prices and absolutely awesome staff.

Reviewed by Ed K. - September 30, 2014

Likes:
Solid construction and sure fit comfort. Bottom line is this: I enjoy wearing these boots so much I purchased a second pair (thanks to BCE's recent sale) to keep in reserve for when I wear out my first pair on the PCT.

Dislikes:
No complaints.

Reviewed by Anonymous Backcountry Edge Customer - May 12, 2014

Likes:
Great ankle support, waterproof, Vibram sole is comfortable on the feet.

Dislikes:
The weight of the boots is on the heavy side.

Reviewed by I-mei E. - October 16, 2012

Likes:
Still in the "Break in" period on these boots. The toe box and width are very well proportioned for the stated size. The sole is very well defined and will do well in the Cascades where I hike most. Lacking system seems to be quick and secure.

Dislikes:
Overall weight was higher than expected.

Reviewed by Jack A. - December 5, 2011

Likes:
These are the first new hiking boots I've bought in over 10 years and I have to admit I waited too long because these a great. Fit great right out of box and a very short break-in period. Great ankle support when hiking over rocks. In addition to hiking, it's a great backpacking boot. Feet are always dry even after hiking in the rain or crossing a stream.

Dislikes:
The boots are a little heavier than my old boots but the old ones were not completely leather. After the first couple of hikes, you're feet will not notice a differce, anyway.

Reviewed by Anonymous Backcountry Edge Customer - October 27, 2011

Likes:
I love my Bitterroot Boots. Very little break in needed. I can't wait to hit the trail with them!